verb (used with object), de·clas·si·fied, de·clas·si·fy·ing.
- to remove the classification from (information, a document, etc.) that restricts access in terms of secrecy, confidentiality, etc.Compare classification(def 5).
verb -fies, -fying or -fied
- (tr) to release (a document or information) from the security list
1865, originally a term in logic; with reference to state secrets, 1946; from de- + classify. Related: Declassification; declassified; declassifying.